THE president of Darwen Lions wants to erect a ‘roll of honour’ memorial to people who dedicate their lives to the town.

Kevan Jennings, who also owns Controlla Covers in Chapels Park, off Goose House Lane, made the suggestion after the death of charity champion Ian Ashton.

Mr Ashton, who passed away in June, was a five-time Darwen Lions president, former scout leader, freemason and chairman of the Magic Eye Appeal.

Mr Jennings said a roll of honour would be a way of remembering his contribution to the town, and that of others.

He said: “We want a roll of honour in the town to posthumously remember people who have done good for Darwen throughout their lives.

“There must be loads of people who deserve recognition, like former Lions president Ian Ashton.

“He was involved in so many things to help in Darwen.

“But we need to work with the council’s planning department so they can help us in terms of how to go about it.” As it stands, the roll of honour is just a suggestion and Mr Jennings said there were no plans over the design of the monument or what it would be made of.

If the idea was to go ahead, it would be funded by Darwen Lions.

Sunnyhurst councillor Brian Taylor said he was supportive of the idea.

He said: “It is not a bad idea at all. It sounds good to me.

“It is important to remember the contributions of people to the town.

“It would also give families of the deceased something to be proud of to show their loved ones have not been forgotten.

“It would be good to see it in the town centre, somewhere close to the town hall.

“This is something Kevan should bring before the town council where it can be discussed further.”

Sudell councillor Paul Browne said: “I think it is a good idea. I would support it 100 per cent.”